John Hody

Sir John Hody (died 1441)[2] of Stowell in Somerset and of Pilsdon in Dorset, was Chief Justice of the King's Bench.

Although there is no record of his summons to take the degree of the coif, there is very little doubt that he was by 1435/36 a serjeant-at-law, as his name appears on the list of those called upon to contribute towards the equipment of the army against France in 1435/36.

Notwithstanding the short period during which he presided in the court, he is stated by Prince (d. 1723)[8] to have won golden opinions by his integrity and firmness in the administration of justice.

By a large amount of silver plate and other articles which he gave in legacies, some idea may be formed of the domestic economy of a Chief Justice of England at this period.

[19] In about 1880 during restoration work, a square stone was discovered on the floor of the church beneath the tower, on which is sculpted the monogram "JH".